Asian markets are mostly lower or mixed as investors react to U.S. military strikes in southern Iran. Multiple outlets report that the United States carries out “self-defence” or “defensive” strikes, aimed at protecting U.S. troops from threats attributed to Iranian forces. The U.S. says the strikes include actions targeting missile launch sites and boats that are described as laying mines. One report notes the attacks occur while President Donald Trump states that negotiations to end the conflict are “proceeding nicely,” though the status of the peace talks remains unclear.
In energy markets, oil prices move upward in some reports and are mixed in others. The Winnipeg Free Press says oil prices rise by more than $1 after the strikes, while Business Standard reports mixed pricing and cites Brent crude below $95 per barrel. U.S. futures are also described as higher. Market reactions are therefore shaped not only by the immediate news of the strikes, but also by subsequent uncertainty around what the action means for ongoing talks and whether any ceasefire or response is forthcoming.
